Hi, I drive a 2006 Acura TL Sedan (5-Speed automatic transmission, 3.2L engine). About 4 days ago, I noticed the check engine light came on in my car so went to my local mechanic to get it checked. The screen on the device they used had an error message saying "catalytic below threshold 1" (or something very close to that - forget exactly what it said)... they told me that meant there was a problem with my catalytic converter. They said the cost for replacing the catalytic converter would be $1,000 or more.

I have two questions:

1) Does the error necessarily mean that I need my catalytic converter replaced? Is it possible something else related could be the issue that's would be a less expensive fix? If not, are there inexpensive ways of fixing the converter?

2) Would the converter be covered by an emissions control warranty? I read something online about this possibly being covered by an 8 yr/80,000 mile warranty? I bought this car used last year and it has ~78,000 miles on it.

Any help is very much appreciated, thanks!

 

Looks like this forum doesn't let you edit posts but I have one additional question - is there a potential hazard in driving on a bad catalytic converter? My mechanic seemed to imply that since the car passed an emissions test 6 months ago (in VA your car is emissions tested every two years) I didn't really have too much to worry about for now, but will it cause problems for my car if I continue to drive? I do plan on getting this fixed as soon an possible but would like to know if it's not a good idea to drive the car...

 

Hey not sure if anyone else may have chimed in but I experienced the same problem and it is covered by an 8 year/ 80,000 mile warranty.

 

Any update on this?

 

havent seen many convertors fail. usually its an O2 sensor issue. just clear the code and see if it returns.

 

Don't clear the code if you are going to try for a warranty replacement. Let the dealer see it first. They will clear it, and see if it returns. If it does, and you don't have any related codes they will probably replace it.

 

What's the update OP?

 

Appreciate you searching Yung, but also pay attention to post date. OP posted this 4 years ago. Also judging by his post count of 8.. I don't think he'll be back to answer you :/

Did you not try to clear the light like we suggested and see if it comes back? It could very well be a fluke.

 

^at least he searched before starting a new thread.






Although you guys did give him a heads up!